Optimizing gut integrity and barrier function is an important strategy to prevent disease, promote gut health and improve the productive performance of shrimp. In this regard, an interesting concept is the use of feed supplements that can strengthen the immune system and the intestinal tract. Of particular interest are botanical supplements that can enhance non-specific (innate) immune responses by improving intestinal functions, increasing survival and weight gain. Botanical supplements containing actives with immunomodulatory properties are promising candidates for immune system modulation and as productivity enhancers. Therefore, the botanical plant extract used in this trial has the potential not only to prevent disease, but also to increase the animal’s ability to cope with any event that occurs during its productive cycle.
The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of a botanical feed supplement on the productive performance of pacific white shrimp (Litopenaeus vannamei), under experimental conditions. The trial consisted in five treatments depending on botanical inclusion level (g/ton): Control; T1-AVT100; T2-AVT150; T3-AVT200 and T4-AVT250. All feeds were formulated with same ingredients to match the nutritional requirements of shrimps.
After completion of 60 days feeding trails, the weight gain % showed significant (P<0.05) difference between the control and treatment group (Fig.1).
Animals fed with T2-AVT and T3-AVT showed higher growth rate compared to the control and other treatment groups.
Though FCR, did not show significant (P<0.05) difference between the control and treatment group (Fig.2), but a noticeable trend was recorded. Better FCR was recorded in the T2-AVT and T3-AVT group.
Survival rate of shrimps showed a significant (P<0.05) difference between the control and treatment group (Fig 3). Lowest survival rate was recorded in the Control and T1-AVT.
We can conclude that the botanical feed supplement tested in this study improved the productive parameters of shrimps at a dose of 150 g/ton of feed.